Tension gripped Faransi village in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State after a member of the civilian Joint Task Force, popularly known as Yansakai, reportedly opened fire inside a mosque.
The shocking incident happened during prayers, throwing the peaceful community into confusion and fear. One youth, identified as Bawa Kiri, was injured in the attack and is currently receiving treatment at Ribah General Hospital in Zuru Local Government Area.
According to local sources, the victim’s father, Kiri Nyako, quickly reported the matter to military personnel from the 1 Brigade stationed in Unashi. Troops have since launched a manhunt for the suspected shooter, who is believed to be a member of the Yansakai group—a local vigilante outfit active in many northern communities.
Military sources confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and efforts are being made to track down and arrest the attacker. So far, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear.
“This is a very serious matter,” a resident told our correspondent. “We have never seen this kind of thing before—someone bringing a gun into a mosque and shooting during prayers.”
The Yansakai group, while not officially recognized by the government, has been known to assist communities in fighting banditry and other forms of insecurity. However, there have also been rising concerns over the group’s methods, lack of training, and sometimes excessive use of force.
In recent years, Kebbi and other parts of the North West have experienced increasing security challenges, including attacks by bandits, kidnappers, and communal clashes. Vigilante groups like the Yansakai emerged as a response to the slow pace of official security interventions.
The Kebbi State Police Command has not yet released an official statement on the incident, but residents are calling on both the state government and security agencies to take urgent steps to prevent such occurrences in the future.
